The state minister for Defence in charge of Veteran Affairs, Huda Oleru Abason has saluted the 10 UPDF representatives in the 11th parliament for exhibiting golden hearts.
““I must thank you for this gesture. This is a demonstration of generosity and kindness to the comrades you are representing. Indeed, you have shown that you can be there for them,” Huda said.
The minister was on Tuesday commissioning a shs98 million girls’ dormitory at Airforce Secondary School in Entebbe constructed by the UPDF MPs in the 11th parliament.
The funds were got off the legislators’ salaries.
Minister Huda said unlike many, the UPDF MPs in the 10th parliament have shown service above self.
“It is not easy for someone to pick money from their salary and give it to others. It can only be done by those who have a heart for humanity. Here are 10 MPs who were not forced but out of their own will, contributed funds that have seen a state-of-the-art dormitory constructed.”
She applauded the MPs for not only representing UPDF interests in parliament but the interests of the country at large.
The state minister for trade, Gen Wilson Mbadi who is also the chairperson of the UPDF caucus in parliament said by constructing such facilities, they are giving back to society.
He said they decided to contribute to education and health sectors.
“We sat as a caucus and decided we must leave something that we will be remembered for all times. We decided to contribute a small amount for each of us. At this school we chose education and especially for girls who are vulnerable when they don’t have an enabling environment to study,” Gen Mbadi said.
He applauded the cooperation between the UPDF caucus in parliament and the Ministry of Defence leadership.
The UPDF Airforces chief of staff, Brig David Gonyi said by constructing the dormitory, the UPDF MPs are adding value to education of Ugandans.
The UPDF Joint Staff formal education, sports and culture, Brig Richard Karemire said by providing quality and free education to children of soldiers, their morale is being boosted.
“Morale is a big factor for a successful army and we are happy that through this donation you are contributing to that. This is how we can put our soldiers at peace and in turn, they focus on securing our motherland. I salute our MPs for this great donation. This is not the first time they have done this. They have made tremendous donations and it is manifestation of real patriotism and love for our forces,” Brig Karemire said.
The school headmaster, Maj Nathan Ampaire said the school with a population of 2500 learners still lacks enough facilities in form of classroom blocks, science laboratory, library and computer laboratory.
The function was also attended by other UPDF MPs including Lt Gen James Mugira,Col Dr.Victoria Nekesa and Col Dr.Jenifer Alanyo.
